Snow Tire Question, Please

You might also look at sites like discount tire and tire rack as they
often have reader feedback on the tires they sell. CR highest rated snow
tire is Michelin X-Ice XI 2. They also check rate the General Altimax
Arctic and the Nokian Hakkapeliitta 5 (nos. 2 and 3.)

tirerack.com used to have both test data on various tires, but specefic
recommendations for tires, including winter tread tires for specific
applications, such as SUV, pickup, fullsize passanger car, compact,
sub-compact, etc.

All of the replies have some good suggestions so I'll just add my 2
cents.  Studs are illegal in many states and, with the exception of
driving on ice, will not be beneficial on dry pavement, which you /she
will be doing the majority of her driving on (increased stopping
distance and lower adhesion for handling).  The tirerack.com suggestion
is excellent as they usually have a good variety and most are consumer
rated.  Also the idea of going with a taller, narrower tire is good.  I
think you have a 205/55-16 so if you went with a 195/65-15 you would
have the same rolling radius but it would be a narrower tire.  My final
suggestion would be to order a "package" of a steel wheel,the tire,
wheel cover and TPMS.  The initial cost of the wheel will be offset by
not having to pay to get the tires switched every year in spring and summer.

Finally, although snow tires do increase performance, in light to
moderate snow I have found that in deep snow driveability is as much
affected by ground clearance and operator-ability as in tire selection.

Should be spring and fall - Duh!

so true,once your bottom is hung up on deep snow it does not matter how many
wheel drive you have.

also with my own daughter, the winter before she started winter driving,i
took her to a large empty unplowed lot and let her find out how the car
feels in a skid and how to come out of it.some people are terrified of
winter driving but confidence and reading conditions will go a long way
twords keeping safe.

a good set of winter tires and confidence in the car and your abilities goes
a long way.

my only advice to her was not to drive in freezing rain if at all possible.
jeff